Vodafone rolls out pay-by-mobile London taxis

In a bid to exert itself as the sexiest mobile network in London, Vodafone has commenced the rollout of a fleet of taxis that allows its customers to pay for their journeys via their mobile phones.

Vodafone customers can pre-register for the service (by calling 0845 680 3409) and subsequently make payments via SMS. There are no additional fees for using the service.

As an added bonus, the special fleet of cabs – which will eventually number in the hundreds – also offers phone chargers. They’ll be available to all travellers, not just Vodafone customers, and the network promises that they "support all makes of mobile phone."

The taxis will be easily recognisable by their Union Jack designs, which are made up of over 2,000 London street names.

A similar service is being introduced across seven Heathrow Express trains over the next few weeks.

Guy Laurence, Vodafone UK Chief Executive, says: “We are committed to offering London the best possible network. We have already made hundreds of improvements to increase coverage, capacity and reliability to ensure Londoners can always stay in touch with friends and family. Now with our fantastic fleet of Union Jack cabs and their on-board chargers which anyone can use, all Londoners will be able to see our continuing commitment to the capital.”